Drop anchor in Karlskrona, the city that was founded in 1680, when Karl XI decided to build Sweden's new naval base here. More than 340 years later, the naval base remains and the well-preserved architecture and city plan impressed UNESCO, and gave the city World Heritage status in 1998. Wherever you go, you can see evidence of this; magnificent churches, grand squares, parade streets and fortifications that attract visitors from all over the world.
And all this on a number of islands, in the middle of the archipelago. An archipelago that UNESCO has designated as one of eight biosphere reserves in Sweden. Nowhere else in the world can you paddle around a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve while enjoying the amazing fortifications and buildings of a World Heritage city.
Welcome to Karlskrona!
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Håkan Linder
Jul. Mitt i skärgården.
Välkommen att förbereda och fira jul med oss här i Karlskrona! Ta dig ut till vår unika och mysiga stadskärna som ligger på en ö, mitt i Blekinges vackra skärgård, och besök många mysiga julmarknader och andra julinspirerade evenemang runt omkring Karlskrona!
Unna dig en härlig och avkopplande långhelg i Karlskrona! Här finns möjlighet till sköna, avkopplande dagar med bastubad, shopping, kulinariska upplevelser, lyxiga hotellfrukostar på unika boenden.
Våren anländer tidigt till världsarvsstaden Karlskrona. Staden i havet lockar med rogivande skärgårdsutsikt, det första glaset utomhus i vårsolen, härliga naturupplevelser i biosfärområdet och spännande besöksmål.
Welcome to prepare for and celebrate Christmas with us here in Karlskrona — a World Heritage city sparkling with holiday spirit!
Stroll through our charming island city center, beautifully set in the heart of Blekinge’s stunning archipelago. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere, explore enchanting Christmas markets, and take part in festive events all around Karlskrona.
Welcome to Karlskrona city and do your Christmas shopping or simply stroll around and enjoy how beautifully the World Heritage city glitters and sparkles!
In many ways, the countdown to The Karlskrona Christmas officially begins on November 28th, when all the beautiful Christmas lights in the city center are switched on. The streets and squares come alive with festive decorations that create a magical atmosphere. The city’s shops offer a wide variety of choices – from well-known brands and major chains to charming, one-of-a-kind boutiques.
Every day from December 1st and right up to Christmas Eve, a Live Christmas calendar will take place on the façade of Fredrik’s Church. Each day features a 10–15 minute event created with the participation of as many Karlskrona residents as possible – everything from choir singing, music, and dance to exciting, spectacular performances!
Weekdays at 6:00 p.m. and on Saturdays, Sundays, and December 23rd at 2:00 p.m. – don’t miss it!Read more below.
Take part of all fun, cosy and "Christmasy" events that take place in Karlskrona this Christmas!
Traditional Swedish Christmas dinner
Would you like to experience a traditional Swedish Christmas dinner — a smörgåsbord filled with local delicacies, traditional dishes, and sweet treats? Christmas ham, pâtés, ribs, and herring in all its forms — the Swedish Christmas table is truly something special!
In Karlskrona, you can enjoy a Christmas dinner or a Christmas plate at several different restaurants. What makes the Christmas buffets in our city unique is their location and closeness to the sea.
Events - upcoming highlights
Everything from guided city tours and archipelago tours to nature walks, art exhibitions, music and fun. Below you will find a selection, a complete overview can be found under "Events"
Discover Karlskrona's World Heritage during the exciting World Heritage Days on 1-3 November! Don't miss the opportunity to explore Karlskrona's rich cultural heritage in a way you never have before! Take part of the program here.
Karlskrona Archipelago Festival 2026
A festival where the unique history of the World Heritage Site meets the pulse and bustle of the modern city. Where lively parks and squares offer music and festivities, but where quiet hidden gems and fascinating history also provide visitors with unforgettable memories.
The Karlskrona Archipelago Festival 2026 takes place July 28–August 2, and most events are free during the festival.
Karlskrona Archipelago Festival 2026
28 Jul
- 02 Aug
A festival where the world heritage's unique history meets the modern city life! There will be lot's
Tips from our summer staff!
Our talented summer staff share their favorite hidden gems.
Alva recommends... "My tip for anyone visiting Karlskrona is to take a bike or the bus to Nättraby and set out on the beautiful Skärvaleden trail through the Skärva Nature Reserve. The trail, which is about 5 kilometers long, offers a wonderful combination of nature, history, and seaside experiences, where you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings along the Baltic Sea. Be sure to stop by Skärva Eko Gårdsbutik and sit down for a delicious lunch or coffee and pastries in their cozy summer café. During your hike, I also recommend a visit to Skärfva Manor, a unique 18th-century manor house that is part of the Karlskrona World Heritage Site. The manor was built as a summer residence for the famous shipbuilder Fredrik Henrik af Chapman and is known for its distinctive architecture and beautiful location. Skärva is a place where nature and history come together in a truly special way. Here, you can hike in peace and quiet, discover fascinating stories from the past, and at the same time enjoy one of Karlskrona’s most scenic settings. It’s the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience something authentic and memorable during their visit."
Smilla recommends... "My best tip for things to do this summer in Karlskrona is to go see plays and concerts. Summer theater productions are usually staged here and there in Karlskrona. Sometimes in the courtyard of Café Nyfiket and sometimes in the courtyard of the Blekinge Museum. Be sure to keep an eye on the event calendar at VisitKarlskrona.se so you’re aware of any new additions. There are also all kinds of concerts to enjoy. Sing-alongs in Wämöparken, Troubadour Evenings, Songs in the Backyard, concerts out at Drottningskärs Kastell, and of course the Karlskrona Archipelago Festival. Culture is incredibly important to me, and it’s also important to support small theater groups and local musicians. That’s the best way to experience Karlskrona."
Daniel recommends... "My top tip for things to do in Karlskrona is to start with the hop-on, hop-off boat from Fisktorget and take a tour through the stunning archipelago. Then hop off at Wämöparken and take a stroll through this beautiful cultural and nature park. Be sure to stop for a coffee and pastry at Våffelstugan—a perfect stop along the way. Then continue up to Bryggareberget, where you’ll find one of Karlskrona’s best views of the city, the archipelago, and the inlet. For me, this is a tour that captures the best of Karlskrona—the proximity to the sea, the beautiful nature, and a fantastic view."
Michelle recommends... "I’m someone who enjoys learning about history and taking in beautiful nature (and nice weather). If I had to recommend just a few things, I would definitely suggest our city walk or Kulturkompaniet’s guided tour ‘If the Russians Came,’ which takes you on a historical journey through the city. Otherwise, I’d recommend a bike ride out to Färskesjön with a packed lunch or snacks, where you can sunbathe, swim, or have a barbecue if you’d like.”
Saga recommends... "My favorite spot in Karlskrona is the village where I grew up, Nättraby. So, my recommendation for experiencing Nättraby is to do the following: Take the M/S Axel from downtown Karlskrona to Nättraby. This boat trip starts in the Karlskrona archipelago and ends with a ride down the Nättrabyån River, which winds its way through the village. When you get off the boat, follow the path alongside the river until you reach Orrekulle, a beautiful nature area located right by the sea. Here, you can walk through the forest, right next to the sea, and finally stop for a swim at Tallholmen."
Andreas Blomlöf
Helgmys. Mitt i skärgården.
Ta med dig någon du tycker om till Karlskrona i helgen! Med skärgården som kuliss kan ni komma bort lite från vardagen, käka gott och bo bra. Det är ni värda, eller hur?
Ta med dig någon du tycker om till Karlskrona i helgen! Med skärgården som kuliss kan ni komma bort lite från vardagen, käka gott och bo bra. Det är ni värda, eller hur?
Våren anländer tidigt till världsarvsstaden Karlskrona. Staden i havet lockar med rogivande skärgårdsutsikt, det första glaset utomhus i vårsolen, härliga naturupplevelser i biosfärområdet och spännande besöksmål.
Vårsolen värmer och fiskmåsarnas välbekanta skri gjuter hopp om att ännu en sommar är i antågande i Karlskrona och Sveriges sydligaste skärgård! Men först kommer den härliga påsken, förhoppningsvis med några extra lediga dagar.
Välkommen att förbereda och fira jul med oss här i Karlskrona! Ta dig ut till vår unika och mysiga stadskärna som ligger på en ö, mitt i Blekinges vackra skärgård, och besök många mysiga julmarknader och andra julinspirerade evenemang runt omkring Karlskrona!
Karlskrona is just the right destination for families with curious and active children. Karlskrona offers activities and places to visit for children of all ages!
Välkommen att förbereda och fira jul med oss här i Karlskrona! Ta dig ut till vår unika och mysiga stadskärna som ligger på en ö, mitt i Blekinges vackra skärgård, och besök många mysiga julmarknader och andra julinspirerade evenemang runt omkring Karlskrona!
Karlskrona's main attraction! This is one of southern Sweden's most popular tourist destinations. Exciting, fun and educational for the whole family. The Naval Museum is certified under the international environmental management standard ISO 14001.
Drottningskär Citadel is part of the world heritage site Karlskrona and was built in the last decades of the 17th century. Drottningskär Citadel, part of the World Heritage site Karlskrona, was built during the last decades of the 17th century and is considered one of the Swedish fortifications' foremost creations. Opening Hours 2026: May 30–August 31, daily 9:45 a.m.–5:00 p.m. The Citadel Tavern: Sunday–Thursday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m, Friday–Saturday: 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m. Guided tours are offered daily: Journey Through Time - A historical experience for the whole family, at 10:30 a.m. and The History of Drottningskär Citadel, at 12:30 p.m, 1:45 p.m, and 3:00 p.m.
Two unique collections in Albinsson and Sjöberg's business, car and porcelain museums. The car museum has a wide range, including cars such as King Gustav VI Adolf's Cadillac from -57, Olof Palme's last car, as well as unique sports cars, racing cars, etc. The porcelain museum in the old porcelain factory's coal cellar shows Karlskrona Porslinsfabrik's production 1918-1968, 50 years of design and industrial history. Opening hours: Fridays and Saturdays, 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. (Closed during the Midsummer weekend.) June 23 – August 31: Tuesday – Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Extended hours after Midsummer. The entrance fee of SEK 120 includes admission to both the Porcelain Museum and the Car Museum. Children under 15 years free, accompanied by an adult. Café with homemade cakes and the coffee is of course served in coffee cups made in the porcelain factory.
U 137 gick på grund vid Gåsefjärden 27 oktober 1981
I år är det 40 år sedan den ryska ubåten U137 gick på grund i Gåsefjärden och världens blickar riktades mot Karlskrona under tio dramatiska dygn. Nu uppmärksammas händelsen genom Marinmuseums utställning Ytspänning samt föreläsningar.
Marinmuseum
Utställningen Ytspänning på Marinmuseum
Ubåtsjakter i skärgården, storpolitiska utspel, öst mot väst och supermakter i ständig kamp. Följ med tillbaka till det kalla kriget. Medan den svenska försvarsmakten befann sig i krigsliknande situationer med främmande ubåtar i skärgården och ständiga incidenter i Östersjön präglades 80-talet också av glamour, snabba klipp och en blomstrande populärkultur.
A day at the Children's Farm (Barnens Gård) is a day filled with fun mischief and play. Open: June 13–18: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
June 20–August 16: 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.
Kristianopel, a hidden gem you won’t want to miss! Strolling among the small wooden houses with gardens bursting with roses is the best way to experience Kristianopel. Take in the scents of roses and the sea.
Drottningskär Citadel is part of the world heritage site Karlskrona and was built in the last decades of the 17th century. Drottningskär Citadel, part of the World Heritage site Karlskrona, was built during the last decades of the 17th century and is considered one of the Swedish fortifications' foremost creations. Opening Hours 2026: May 30–August 31, daily 9:45 a.m.–5:00 p.m. The Citadel Tavern: Sunday–Thursday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m, Friday–Saturday: 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m. Guided tours are offered daily: Journey Through Time - A historical experience for the whole family, at 10:30 a.m. and The History of Drottningskär Citadel, at 12:30 p.m, 1:45 p.m, and 3:00 p.m.
Kristianopel, a hidden gem you won’t want to miss! Strolling among the small wooden houses with gardens bursting with roses is the best way to experience Kristianopel. Take in the scents of roses and the sea.
Drottningskär Citadel is part of the world heritage site Karlskrona and was built in the last decades of the 17th century. Drottningskär Citadel, part of the World Heritage site Karlskrona, was built during the last decades of the 17th century and is considered one of the Swedish fortifications' foremost creations. Opening Hours 2026: May 30–August 31, daily 9:45 a.m.–5:00 p.m. The Citadel Tavern: Sunday–Thursday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m, Friday–Saturday: 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m. Guided tours are offered daily: Journey Through Time - A historical experience for the whole family, at 10:30 a.m. and The History of Drottningskär Citadel, at 12:30 p.m, 1:45 p.m, and 3:00 p.m.
Spring arrives early in Karlskrona compared to the rest of the country, usually sometime in March. It is easy to know when spring is coming: The days get a little warmer and lighter day by day. Spring flowers appear, the trees are budding, birds are singing, farmers deliver fresh delicacies and there are lots of people outside enjoying the sun. All of this together – they make spring in Karlskrona quite remarkable.
Nature is waking up
In May, the flowers bloom, and so do the people in Karlskrona. The restaurants' outdoor seatings open and are filled with happy people. Nature practically explodes around you - trees and flowers come to life, the leaves of the lush beech forests burst and the beautiful gardens of Brändaholm are an unforgettable sight.
Tip: Brändaholm
The blooming fruit trees together with all the spring flowers in bloom, which surround all the beautiful red cottages in the small allotment gardens on Brändaholm is an unforgettable sight. The smell of everything blooming is a fantastic experience beyond the ordinary.
Håkan Linder
The birds return
The Karlskrona archipelago and long coastline are alive with birdlife this time of year, and those birds that fled the winter have returned home to enjoy the warmer seasons. Bring your binoculars and camera to really enjoy Karlskrona's rich birdlife!
Tip: Torhamns Udde
The scent of the sea, moors and large meadows invite you to walks and excursions. Torhamns Udde is a nature conservation area - an open agricultural landscape, which is rich in ancient monuments with a long cultural history. The area is also an internationally renowned spot for bird watching, with a large number of migratory birds.
Andreas Blomlöf
World-class paddling
Paddling in Sweden's southernmost archipelago, with 1,650 islands, islets and skerries, appointed by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve, is a fantastic experience. The beautiful archipelago creates a safe and calm water to paddle in. Enjoy blue days with wind and water, salty rocks and calm bays! There are many suppliers in Karlskrona who rent out kayaks and organize guided tours for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
Tip: Blekinge Outdoor
Enjoy Karlskrona's biosphere zone or discover the world heritage city of Karlskrona. Both are protected by the UN agency Unesco. Combine paddling with high-quality accommodation or why not spend the night on your own island? Blekinge Outdoor offers packages in different levels of difficulty and can offer guides, kayak, bike and equipment hire. In the area you can see ancient remains from the Viking Age, nesting eagles, breeding seals and a working naval base from the 17th century.
World-class fishing
In Karlskrona's lovely archipelago, you will find one of the world's best fisheries, primarily for pike, but also sea trout, perch and salmon. The fantastic pike population means that the Karlskrona archipelago is often called the "Kingdom of Pike".
Fishing is easily accessible as all large islands in the island barrier outside the city can be easily and conveniently reached by car. The archipelago is also relatively sheltered from the wind, which makes it easily accessible even with smaller boats and fishing kayaks. But fishing can also be easily done from all the islands around Karlskrona's wonderful archipelago. The archipelago is essentially shallow, which means that many stretches of beach are very suitable for wader fishing.
Tip: Camp Dragsö Sportfishing
Camp Dragsö Sportfishing is a fishing camp specialized in pike fishing and is located in the middle of the pike kingdom's capital, Karlskrona. Camp Dragsö Sportfishing offers quality fishing opportunities with several classes on both accommodation and boats. The season with us starts when the ice melts in the spring and continues until the end of November.
Nature by Andreas
Enjoy seasonal food & drink
Visit Karlskrona's farm shops during spring, when it's time for local farmers to deliver fresh delicacies such as the first potatoes of the year, asparagus, radishes and onions. It's this extra freshness that will leave many foodies weak in the knees.
Tip: Orranäs Farm Dairy
Orranäs Farm Dairy, located along the scenic culinary route Kustvägen Sydost, is a small-scale, locally focused farm dairy specializing in cheese production made from cow’s milk. The milk is bought from a nearby organic farm. The dairy has a clear sustainability profile that runs through the entire operation – from animal husbandry to production and sales. Over the years, Orranäs Farm Dairy has received several medals, awards, and scholarships.
Local delicacies
Most of Karlskrona's many lovely and well-stocked farm shops are open all year round.
Wonderful harvest times
Now during the autumn it is time for harvest times in Karlskrona. Take the opportunity to visit our many fine farm shops and buy local delicacies!
Tip! Do you know that there are three vineyards in Karlskrona...
Vineyard Stora Horn
At the island Hasslö's oldest farm, dating back to the late 18th century, you will find the
The vineyard Boråkra
Just 10 minutes from the center of Karlskrona you will find the vineyard Boråkra, a sumptuous house
Tjurkö Vineyard
Tjurkö Vinodling is a smaller vineyard with approx. 1000 vines consisting mostly of Solaris planted
Tips on fun winter experiences
Winter bath + sauna raft = A fantastic combination not to be missed!
The swimming season does not end in Karlskrona just because the temperature drops and any snow falls like a white blanket over the ground.
Are you one of those people who, wearing a thick hat, likes to brave subzero temperatures and the cold for a brisk swim? Then you are not alone. The number of winter bathers only seems to increase every year, and Karlskrona has several bathing spots that are suitable for a quick swim, for example the bathing spots Hästö, Långö or Saltö. These bathing areas have bathing ladders adapted for winter bathing, as well as hooks to hang your bathrobe and clothes on. Here you can follow the bathing temperature at Karlskrona's various bathing spots.
It will be even better if before and after the bath you can enjoy in a warm and cozy sauna raft in the archipelago! Invite family and friends and relax in a fantastic environment!
Blekinge Sauna Raft - Dragsö Camping
Dragsö camping offers you a unique experience in Karlskrona's archipelago with your own Sea Raft.
Karlskrona Floating sauna
Archipelago, entertainment and relaxation!
Sauna package - kayak + sauna
Paddle for a few hours, and finish with a nice sauna.
Allan's sauna boat and wood-fired hot tub on
Experience the sauna boat and hot tub – warmth with a view of the archipelago
Andreas Blomlöf
Vinterbada i havet
Mats Svensson berättar om känslan att ta ett tidigt morgondopp under de kalla månaderna i Karlskronas klara och kalla vatten.
Sustainable tourism: the key to a thriving destination
Karlskrona and Blekinge are striving to become one of Sweden’s most sustainable and regeneratively growing destinations—an ongoing process that will develop the destination over time. During your visit to Karlskrona, we want to inspire you to make conscious choices. Whether you’re looking for certified businesses, organic products, or locally sourced ingredients, there are plenty of options to discover.
We’re proud that our sustainability efforts have been reviewed and recognized by Green Destinations with a Gold Award. The certification is a testament to our commitment to sustainable development and our ambition to create long-term value for both visitors and the local community. Read more about the certification via Green Destinations here.
In 2026, the following companies were certified through the Good Travel Seal: PS Kultur, Cross Baltica, Arkipelag Kajak/Blekinge Adventures AB, and Dragsö Camping.
Dear visitor,
We hope that you will enjoy yourself so much during your visit in Karlskrona that you might even want to move here! Surely you want that balance with both an engaging job and a leisure time with activity and rest? You are more than welcome to find a home in Karlskrona, there are a lot of possibilities for you here. What if you were to live here? If you were to live in the archipelago and could go by boat or kayak to work, if you could have your morning coffee a sea view, live in the holiday feeling, live in the postcard - all year round? Karlskrona is facing major growth, where thousands of new jobs will be created in the next few years. Maybe your dream job and dream life can be found in Karlskrona?
